Portfolio Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) is an initiative launched in 2020 aimed at mobilizing new sources of public and private finance to protect the world's most climate-resilient coral reefs. The GFCR operates under the auspices of the UNOPS, which provides administrative and operational services to the GFCR Secretariat. The organization is committed to enhancing the resilience of coral reef ecosystems and communities by unlocking resources that support sustainable businesses and finance solutions. The GFCR is part of a broader UN initiative that spans over 130 countries, working closely with governments, international financial institutions, and UN agencies to deliver impactful services in various sectors including health, environment, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Portfolio Manager will play a crucial role in supporting the strategic development, oversight, and performance management of the GFCR programme portfolio. This position involves leading portfolio coordination, monitoring programme performance, conducting technical reviews, managing risks, and analyzing impacts to ensure that GFCR-funded programmes are effectively designed and implemented in alignment with the Fund's objectives. The role requires a proactive approach to managing partnerships and developing flagship initiatives that contribute to the GFCR's mission of safeguarding coral reefs through innovative financing solutions. The Portfolio Manager will work closely with various stakeholders, including UN agencies and private sector partners, to ensure the successful execution of the GFCR's strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Portfolio Management: Coordinate the overall development and management of assigned trust funds, ensuring collaboration with other funds as necessary. Develop portfolio management tools, oversee risk identification, and draft memos for Steering Committees.
• Monitoring, Reporting, and Impact Measurement: Lead the preparation of progress reports and investment updates, develop monitoring frameworks for portfolio performance, and liaise with partners to ensure effective knowledge sharing.
• Programmes Proposals Technical Reviews: Conduct technical reviews of programme proposals, ensuring alignment with GFCR objectives and compliance with relevant policies.
• Partnerships Development: Lead programmatic partnerships and contribute to flagship initiatives through design and financial modeling support.
• Team Management: Supervise a team of specialists and analysts, providing guidance and support for professional development and effective workload distribution.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, International Relations, Programme or Project Management, Economics, or related fields with a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree with at least 7 years of experience. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in project management, particularly in climate, environment, or development sectors, and experience in managing donor-funded projects. International experience in developing countries is also required, along with a proven track record in portfolio management and coordination.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, International Relations, Programme or Project Management, or Economics is required. A Master’s degree in any of these fields is preferred and will reduce the required years of experience to 7 years.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or 9 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience should include project management in climate, environment, or development sectors, with a focus on portfolio management and coordination. Candidates should also have experience in engaging with private sector and government stakeholders in developing countries, as well as designing projects that incorporate blended finance approaches.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract is for one year with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The position is classified at a senior level (ICS 11) and is a full-time role. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Background checks will be conducted for all final candidates, and UNOPS has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse.